Heading into the 2018-19 MLB offseason, the baseball universe was prepared to embark on one of the most majestic free-agent sweepstakes the sport had ever seen. Not one, but two of the sport’s most heralded, accomplished, and polarizing stars were set to enter free-agency at the ripe age of 26, a combination that happens so rarely. These two superstars were Bryce Harper and Manny Machado.
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After being wined and dined by front offices, legendary franchise stalwarts, and organizations’ top current talents, the two superstars signed for massive deals: Harper for 13 years, $330 million and Machado for 10 years, $300 million. The surprising part of each player’s deal, though, was that their decision was relatively unsuspected. Harper signed with the Philadelphia Phillies, who were coming off 7 straight seasons of sub-.500 baseball and zero playoff appearances. Machado inked with the San Diego Padres, who hadn’t made the postseason since 2006 and had not won more than 90 games since 1998. Their decisions obviously weren’t made based on previous success, but instead rallying around an organizational cry for a future of winning baseball.
In fact, there was criticism at the time of the deals, because it seemed unreasonable that Harper and Machado would sign with clubs that hadn’t won in so long and that maybe it was solely about the money. Of course, money is and always will be a factor in free-agency, and deservedly so. But, the most amazing part of the mega-deals signed by the two mega-stars is that they were willing to take a chance on a city, while the organization was willing to take a chance on themselves that they could construct winning clubs around their new face of the franchise.
It hasn’t been all sunshine and roses for each franchise since the signing of these two superstars, as the Phillies experienced three more consecutive seasons of missing the postseason while the Padres lost 92 games in the first season with Manny. But, look at where these organizations sit now. The Phillies are riding a magical run to the NLCS, having knocked out divisional nemesis Atlanta after avenging their last postseason appearance by sweeping St Louis. The Padres are also in the championship series on the strength of removing the enormous monkey off their back by taking down the big brother, the Los Angeles Dodgers. Each team has had enormous contributions from key guys throughout the regular season and postseason, but there is no question who acts as the heartbeats for both squads: Harper and Machado. These stars have changed everything within the organization, starting with the mindset and concluding with the win/loss column.
This isn’t just a happy-go-lucky story though. Well, maybe it is right now for Philly and San Diego, but not so much for some others. What about the teams that have failed to do what the Phillies and Padres have so boldly sought out? What about front offices and ownership that may not be on the same page, so the organizational structure isn’t strong enough to make a joint decision to go all-in for a superstar? For those who fit into this sad categorical representation, this year’s NLCS isn’t anything more than a mirror with self-inflicted insults written across the top. As a member of the disappointed White Sox fanbase, it is surely not enjoyable going to sleep at night wondering if Bryce Harper or Manny Machado could have done something similar to what they are doing now in Chicago.
AP Photo/Matt Slocum
Speaking of the White Sox, they represent the perfect data point in this discussion. They were rumored to “have a seat at the table” during the Harper and Machado dealings while being in the exact same circumstances as their eventual toughest competition. Yet, they were unable to pull the trigger, unable to make the decision that wasn’t easy. And, ironically, the White Sox will be the ones at home while the Phils and Pads play for a World Series berth. Maybe I’m writing this from a point of jealousy or resentment, but it makes me feel better to know that I was not crazy for wanting my team of choice to sign one of the best baseball players in the world who was only 26 years old. White Sox rant aside, they perfectly show that when organizations conduct business in a timid and hesitant manner, it leads to timid and hesitant results. The Phillies and Padres were full-willing to change their organization and start winning, and they disregarded hesitation in favor of confidence in themselves to build something special.
This is the point of the article. In an era of sports where the idea of rebuilding has become more accepted and practiced, there is nothing that helps rebuttal that ideology such as a team who just says “screw it” and tries to win at any cost. The Phillies, Padres and White Sox were not moving in the right direction heading into the 2018-2019 offseason, and all three had similar ideas in mind. However, of those three, two teams looked to change the organizational mindset by adding generational talent while one team looked to manage risk by playing it safe and following along with the prototypical rebuilding timeline. Of those two subgroups, the teams that left risk to the wind and took a chance are 4 wins away from the World Series. The team that was too afraid to take a chance, spend the money and go all-in has won two playoff games in the four years since and will be watching the championship series from the couch for the now 17th consecutive season. I’m not sure there is a better endorsement than this example for trying to win whenever, and however, an organization can.
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What I am really trying to say here is that it is good for baseball that Machado and Harper, and more importantly their respective teams, are thriving. Philadelphia and San Diego could have each decided to sit back and conclude that Bryce Harper and Manny Machado were out of their price range, and by signing them they could be strapping themselves down to a bad contract that could cost them much worse than the money itself. The two clubs could have conceded the two players to the likes of the Yankees, Cubs, Dodgers or Red Sox because that is more along the lines of their modes of operation.
Denis Poroy/Getty Images
Instead, they didn’t do any of that. The Phillies and Padres made organizational commitments to these incredible talents and distinguished that they were done with bad, sometimes mediocre, baseball teams. Their mutual commitments are paying off for everyone involved, and there is no better evidence than the environments in Philadelphia and San Diego this weekend that making franchise altering moves is good for Major League Baseball and its fans.
Let’s attempt to meet the 2023 Mets, shall we? Well, it may look like a whole new team.
Jacob deGrom, Carlos Carrasco, Edwin Diaz, Chris Bassitt, Trevor May, Taijuan Walker, Brandon Nimmo, Tyler Naquin, Mychal Givens, Adam Ottovino, Seth Lugo, Tommy Hunter, and Trevor Williams are the 13 biggest players testing the markets.
Those players’ names are the entire rotation (except Max Scherzer), majority of the bullpen, starting outfielder, and half of the bench.
How will the Mets regroup after winning more than 100 games for the first time since 1988? As of today, the Mets have $195 million committed in payroll in 2023, according to Baseball Reference.
Let’s take a look at the main free agents this offseason for the Mets:
Jacob deGrom
Credit: Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
The word is out that Jacob deGrom wants to see what else is out there for him, maybe go to another team? Do I think the Mets will attempt to keep him? Without a doubt. Do I think they will be successful? It may be ill-fated from the start.
It’s a team that needed him more then he needed them in the 2nd half of the season.
“He knows how we feel and I know how he feels,” Billy Eppler, Mets’ GM, told reporters on Friday. “It was a good conversation and we had a good amount of dialogue over the course of this season. I think we have a sense of what makes the other one tick. Things are positive and the relationship is positive and we’ll see where it ultimately goes, but he knows how we feel.”
Jacob deGrom has only pitched in 224 innings since the start of the 2020 season. In 2019 alone? He pitched in 204 innings. The other concern with deGrom is his HR9 increased to 1.3 this year, tying his career high from 2017.
Prediction: The Atlanta Braves.
Edwin Diaz
AP Photo/John Minchillo
Sound the trumpets!
Baseball’s best closer is on the market, and if the Mets don’t offer him a contract he agrees to, 29 other MLB teams will be lining up to get him to say yes to them. 32 saves with a 1.31 ERA in 61 games is never a player you can pass up on. I’ve said many times, if Aaron Judge isn’t a Yankee next year, it’s a huge mistake. Same goes for across the river.
With more than five bullpen arms from the ‘22 Mets team on the free agent market, why would you not at least spend the money to get the best one back?
Prediction: The New York Mets
Brandon Nimmo
Oct 8, 2022; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets center fielder Brandon Nimmo (9) reacts after hitting a RBI single in the fourth inning during game two of the Wild Card series against the San Diego Padres for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Consistency is key, and that is what Nimmo provides. Not only does he provide a bat in the lineup you can rely on, it’s the above-average defense that makes him worth the asking price.
This past season Nimmo had a 134 wRC+ and 5.4 fWAR, which will set up a nice pay day, but again worth it with a weak outfielder free agent class.
Nimmo spoke with reporters after the Mets season came to an end. “Sometimes, that experience and getting your young guys that experience can help out in the long run,” Nimmo said of the Mets.
“But I think it’s going to be looked back on as a steppingstone in the right direction for this organization. I think they’re in a great spot heading forward. They’ve got an owner that really wants to win and will do whatever it takes to win. And that’s more than half the battle right there. This organization is heading in the right direction.”
Prediction: The New York Mets
Carlos Carrasco
When Carrasco returned from the injured list in September, he struggled to find his groove, resulting in him being left off of the Wild Card roster for the Mets.
He has been a solid 4 in the Mets rotation since coming from Cleveland, but the 35-year-old may have to find another team.
The Mets have a club option worth $14 million this upcoming season, but with all of the uncertainty surrounding the rotation, nothing is guaranteed.
Carrasco against teams with at least a .500 record, is 4-5 with a 6.84 ERA. Hitters from those clubs have a .300/.365/.486 slash line against him.
Prediction: The Cleveland Guardians
Chris Bassitt
May 19, 2022; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) reacts after being taken out of the game against the St. Louis Cardinals during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Has Bassitt worn out his welcome in New York after his poor starts to finish the 2022 season?
The Mets are in need of pitchers who can perform when the lights are bright, and Bassitt was not that this year.
But, like mentioned earlier with Carrasco, the Mets have 4 of their 5 starters from this season on the free agent market.
They are in desperate need of stability, and well, that is what sir Bassitt provides after making the most starts and pitching in the most innings on this team.
He finished the season with a 3.42 ERA and 2.7 fWAR over 30 starts.
The Yankees backs are up against the wall in Cleveland once again. How did it get to this point?
The Cleveland Guardians are this wonder team that simply get all of those ‘lucky’ hits as a fan you dream about. Many fans started calling the Guardians, ‘The Cleveland Bloopers’
When this best of five game series began on Tuesday, it was Gerrit Cole on the mound that started it off. Since then, the Yankees are winless and now on the verge of being eliminated from postseason contention.
As of this moment the Yankees have won the same amount of games in the playoffs as the Dodgers, Braves, and Mets. Yes, those three teams won over 100 games in the regular season and are now sent home in a hurry.
While the Yankees won 99 games this season, many reporters in New York thought this team would easily get past the Guardians. Michael Kay, YES Network broadcaster, said he would be ‘flabbergasted’ if they lost.
Well, they now have to win the next 2 games or else Kay, among many other Yankees fans will be flabbergasted.
Last nights’ loss in Cleveland was difficult for all Yankees fans, but what made it tougher was the statements the players were saying following the loss.
Aaron Boone took questions from reporters about the decision to not being in Clay Holmes when the game was on the line in the 9th inning. Instead of going to Holmes, they went with Clarke Schmidt. Before this year, Schmidt had only 12.2 IP under his belt in the majors.
This year he did appear in 29 games, and 57.2 innings, but nothing compares to the 9th inning with the bases loaded in Game 3 of the ALDS.
Boone’s reasoning was simply “Only wanted to use Holmes in an emergency situation”, which to many fans questioned what does Aaron Boone classify as an emergency? “Extra innings, or no other pitchers left”.
Following Boone’s press conference, Clay Homes also took questions from the media. This is where it gets interesting..
“I woke up today preparing to pitch, like every other day. I felt like I was available to pitch. They asked, and I told them I was good to go.”
These are the stories that change the culture of a team forever. It is extremely rare for a player to throw his manager under the bus when the team is still playing, let alone on the Yankees.
The Yankees brought in Aaron Boone to be a ‘players-manager’, a coach that would defend his players to the media, and protect them. Someone that these players want to play for. After last nights loss, I don’t know if that is the case anymore.
Luis Severino started the game last night, and here is what he said following the loss:
“He’s our closer. So of course I was surprised. I don’t know if he was down. There shouldn’t be people down in the playoffs. That’s something you guys need to ask Boone or Blake to see what was going on there.”
Again, these are the statements that can alter the clubhouse forever. The players need a manager they respect, and want to play for.
Remember what happened the last time the Yankees lost a heartbreaker in Cleveland? It cost Joe Girardi his job. The mistake of not putting Clay Holmes in the game last night, may have cost Aaron Boone’s as well.
The Yankees will turn to their ace in Gerrit Cole once again this series in hopes to push a Game 5 in the Bronx. Can the Yankees pull it off?
This may not be going out on a limb, but it needs to be said: There is no left-handed hitter in MLB better than Yordan Alvarez.
Baseball fans around the globe were awakened by the “rocket heard around the world” when Yordan Alvarez took Robbie Ray out of the park on Tuesday Night, and it opened everyone’s eyes to just how good Alvarez is. His stature in the game may not rank amongst the likes of Freddie Freeman, Juan Soto or Bryce Harper, but his production outperforms them all.
Living in the shadow of the stars of Houston for so long has made it easy to just look over just how much of a better hitter Alvarez is than every teammate he has or has had. When one thinks about the Astros run of dominance, the names that come to mind are George Springer, Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, and Carlos Correa, and that doesn’t mention the immense success they have had on the mound. Yordan Alvarez isn’t on that list, but as I wrote on in a prior piece, this will be the postseason where he announces his prominence on the charge to Houston’s second title in six years.
Here are his ranks among all hitters (132 qualified players) with at least 240 plate appearances as a Left-Handed Hitter in 2022:
wRC+: 1st
AVG: 4th
SLG: 1st
wOBA: 1st
AP Photo/Craig Lassig
HR: 2nd
2B: 15th
RBI: 5th
BB: 7th
When the qualifications are lowered and more hitters are included, it does not change much for Alvarez, who still ranks top 10 in almost every analytic listed above. So, what makes Alvarez so special and what sets him apart from the rest of the field? Let’s take a look at Alvarez in comparison to his fellow LHH and how he lines up analytically (All unspecified numbers are Left-Handed hitters exclusively).
Alvarez does a pretty good job of putting the ball in play. His 18.9% strikeout rate sits below the league average rate of 22.2%, and he is one of only six qualified left-handed hitters who hit north of .300 in 2022. He has improved on both of these numbers since 2021, but even with lower numbers for the year prior, Alvarez still ranks 6th among all LHH in AVG and better than the MLB K-rate. Alvarez also has an in-the-zone contact percentage of 89.6%, which is the same as Jeff McNeil and tied for 30th among all hitters, right of left, and tied for tenth among all LHH.
Alvarez also doesn’t chase at a ridiculous rate or swing and miss that much. For someone who is certainly a power hitter, he sits at 30th of all hitters (15th for all LHH) in out-of-the zone swing percentage while only swinging and missing 9% of the time, 2.2% below league average for all hitters. For comparison, Aaron Judge swung and missed 11.8% of the time this year while having one of the greatest overall seasons in the history of the sport. Alvarez is considerably different than the modern idea of a power hitter.
Another key for Alvarez is that he absolutely mashes the fastball. Of all players in Major League Baseball, the only hitters with more success against fastballs in 2022 are Judge and Paul Goldschmidt. Even though the usage of the fastball has dipped in recent years, it is still the most frequently utilized pitch in the sport, and Alvarez hits it better than any single LHH in the game.
It may seem like a simple answer to getting Alvarez out – throw anything else but the fastball. That may seem to work, but here’s another key detail as to why Alvarez is so difficult to retire… he also hits the slider as well as anyone, too.
AP Photo/David J. Phillip
Utilizing the same analysis of Alvarez’s success against the fastball, Yordan is the 11th most valuable hitter in all of baseball against the slider and 3rd among all those who hit from the left side. His ability to be the top LHH in the entire sport against the most commonly thrown pitch and a top three LHH against the next most common pitch makes him unusually great, and it also makes him quite possibly the most difficult out in the entire sport.
I would also like it noted that, as I am writing this, Yordan just piloted a ball into the Crawford Boxes for the lead in Game 2. The pitch he hit… a fastball. You can’t make this stuff up.
There is one more distinguishing factor in the success of Yordan Alvarez, and it is by far the most important aspect of his success… he hits the ball really damn hard.
In terms of all left-handed hitters, Alvarez is first in average exit velocity, first in hard hit %, first in barrels, fourth in sweet spot percentage, fifth in total balls hit 95 mph or harder, and third in max exit velocity. Oh, and here are his percentiles within the entirety of the game, per Baseball Savant:
Yordan Alvarez hits the ball harder more often than anyone else in the sport. via- Baseball Savant
It makes it easier for the ball to find a gap, or the seats, when it comes off the bat as fast a kid runs to the ice cream truck on a hot day, and Alvarez does just that. He hits it hard, he hits it hard often, and that leads to good outcomes.
It is so easy to look at the approach of Freddie Freeman or the flair of Juan Soto and fall in love, as I find myself doing just that all the time. But, I think it is time we hand over the crown to the rightful king of the Left-Handed Hitters, which is Yordan Alvarez. In two postseason games, he has already given us two of the biggest, game-changing swings we may see the entire postseason: a three-run walkoff home run with 2-outs in the bottom of the ninth, off a lefty, and a go-ahead two-run blast off the hottest pitcher in the sport. Yordan is the real deal, and he is the best at what he does, or more like where he does it, in the entire game.
The profile of modern day relievers is pretty simple, which is high volatility and short primes. The elite-level relievers maintain the prime a little longer and experience less sudden shifts in performance, but in general, the days of long tenured dominance from relief pitchers has mostly gone by the wayside. This is why we feel that rumble in our belly when the greatest trot out during the game’s biggest moments.
As a closer myself, there is no feeling like that slow jog to the mound, all eyes on you with the weight of the world on your shoulders. Three outs, at least, to feel the thrill of victory, while the opposition stares with intent of destruction. As a fan, that intense emotion is equal. The seat is no longer necessary, unless you can no longer feel your legs, as the body stands involuntarily due to excess anticipation and nervousness. The closer enters.
Few have been able to do the job of a closer so consistently for such a long time that the feeling described above sometimes numbs. They jog in and the nerves, still undoubtedly present, slightly calm. The opposition still stares, yet destruction feels more like a hope than an intention. The emotion is still intense, yet excitement seems inevitable and not lodged in our guts. If you have been paying some close attention, we are losing some of the few that did that for us.
Aroldis Chapman, Craig Kimbrel, and Zack Britton have all been beaten up the last few years, whether that be through injury, by the media, sometimes even both. Their successes have been overshadowed by current doubt and recency bias along with the new, sexier closers we’ve been introduced to in the last few years. Each of the three are age 34 and are finishing at least a decade plus of Major League Baseball, and I believe the focus has been in the wrong place. We are entering the final stages of my generation’s greatest closers, and as someone who has a special spot in my heart for those who are called upon in the game’s hardest moments, I see it right to recognize their excellence in place of their drop-off. This postseason, where we will see relievers with incredible stuff that makes our jaws drop, I’ll be appreciative yet slightly sad, as the closers that I grew up on won’t be present, or at least in the same way as they used to be.
Aroldis Chapman – Established: 2012
Chapman broke onto the scene as the hardest thrower the sport had really ever scene. There had been rumors of players who threw baseballs 100 mph from 60 feet and 6 inches, but no one had ever seen it done like Chapman. His intent, his ferocity, his presence were impossible to ignore, and he was heralded as the beginning of a new style of pitcher. He was.
In 2008, the average reliever threw roughly 92.6 mph while the average starting pitcher threw around 91.3 mph. In 2022, the average reliever throws 93.9 mph while starters sit at 93.8 mph. The game has more velocity than ever before, and Aroldis Chapman is one of the first data points on the success of the modern day flamethrower. Consider him a trendsetter.
In 2002 the average fastball in MLB was 88.5mph.
The average fastball is trending to be over 95mph in 2022.
(It was 94.9 this season) pic.twitter.com/eXBoR5PFxP
He has also experienced immense success, as well. Between the years of 2012-16, Chapman averaged 36.2 saves per year. What is remarkable about this stretch is that, during the 2015 offseason into the 2016 season, within the span of 10 months, Chapman was a member of three different clubs. He was traded from small market Cincinatti, coming off four consecutive All-Star appearances, to the difficult New York market with the Yankees, where he was then shipped off to the Cubs in the middle of the penant chase which resulted in a World Series title. His change of scenery had zero effect on his success, as he was integral in the Cubs ending the 108 year championship drought while posting a 1.01 ERA and 20 total saves (4 in the postseason) during his stint in the Windy City.
In the five subsequent years, following his return to New York after the title chase in Chicago, Chapman continued to be unhittable, amassing 124 more regular season saves along with 6 additional saves in the postseason. He also posted a 2.82 ERA regular season ERA during this span with a 14.53 K/9 and a 1.71 postseason ERA. His dominance was unquestioned.
Gene J. Puskar/Associated Press
Chapman will certainly be known for more than his performance, and that is his own doing. His recent struggles (4.46 ERA, 6.94 BB/9, -0.2 WAR in 2022) and embattled relationship with the Yankees will last for a little time, and his off field troubles may never be separate from his remembered legacy, but in terms of what he accomplished on the baseball field, Chapman is historic. No matter how or when his career is officially over, he will end with 315 career saves and finish no lower than 24th on the all time saves list. He was THE representative image we thought of when we pictured a dominant closer, and for a decade, he was the finisher who made you relax when he came in for your team or concede when it wasn’t.
Craig Kimbrel – Established: 2010
Aside from Mariano Rivera, Craig Kimbrel is one of the most accomplished closers MLB has ever seen. His list includes: World Series title, AL Reliever of the Year, 2x NL Reliever of the Year, NL Rookie of the Year, 8x All-Star, 5x Top-10 Cy Young vote-getter, 1x MLB saves leader and 4x NL saves leader to name a few…
Kimbrel is the definition of a game ender. His career ERA of 2.31 and K/9 of 14.36 speak to his pure dominance, but it doesn’t even begin to mention what his presence meant. There is no denying that, in the 2010’s, if you saw that right arm hanging down at an exact 90 degree angle from his shoulder, the game was all but over. Head for the exits, change the channel, or turn the radio off, because Kimbrel had arrived and the team at the plate was more likely to up and change to a professional soccer team than score a run in the ninth inning. His presence was always felt, and his walk-out song, “Welcome to the Jungle”, felt significantly more inviting than whatever he would actually do to hitters on a baseball field.
Kimbrel has battled some inconsistency over his tenure on the throne of baseball’s greatest active reliever, and “some” is used very apologetically. Kimbrel has had TWO full seasons in his career where his season ERA was north of 3.50, and that includes this year. Oh, and none of those seasons came until 2019, his first season with the Cubs. From 2010-2018, Kimbrel’s highest season ERA came in 2016, where he pitched to a 3.40 ERA with a 14.09 K/9, 31 saves (only 2 blown saves) and a 1.2 WAR. You could argue that this was the worst year during Kimbrel’s prime… Elite.
Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports
Kimbrel has even bounced back from some later career struggles, as in 2021, he made a resurgence. In the first half with the Cubs, he posted a 0.49 ERA with 23 saves and a 15.7 K/9 before being traded to the White Sox at the trade deadline. Kimbrel has not been the same since the trade, and the demise of his career seems to be happening fast. He still has been an above average reliever for the Dodgers in 2022 (0.9 WAR), but has been demoted from the closer role following a long string of struggles.
Losing a closer role in 2022 has no tarnish on a legacy like this. I can honestly point to Craig Kimbrel as the player who made me WANT to be a closer. His demeanor collaborating with filthy stuff was something to awe at, and his authority was respected when on the bump. He may not be the Craig Kimbrel of old, and it is not certain how much longer he will pitch for, but he has nothing left to prove. His 394 saves are first among all active players and 7th among all players in the history of the sport. Whether he closes another game or not, I can personally attest to the feeling of butterflies in my stomach watching his slow trot to the mound, knowing I would soon be able to go to bed after a night of watching baseball because this game was done.
Zack Britton – Established 2014
In comparison to the previous two, Britton has not accumulated nearly the same amount of success, but that also doesn’t take away just how dominant he was. Britton may be known more for the game he didn’t pitch in, as Buck Showalter opted to not use Britton in the 2016 AL Wild Card game where the Orioles ended up losing. Focusing on the games he did pitch in, however, Britton has a legitimate legacy.
Greg Fiume/Getty Images
Britton collected 120 saves from 2014-2016, averaging a clean 40 saves-per-year during that stretch. It is more than that though, because it wasn’t that he just was getting saves, but that he was doing it in the AL East. He was a core reason why the Orioles, who were operating at a much lower payroll than their inter-division competition, were able to hang around, compete, and make two playoff trips during the three year span. If the O’s had a lead late, Britton shut it down. His sinker deadened bats as if it were a bowling ball with the result being a ground ball over SEVENTY-FIVE percent of the time, and that is if they were lucky enough to hit it. Britton was throwing 96 mph sinkers mixed with a slider that, although it was only used about 10% of the time, was devastating. Even with Chapman in the league during the period, it is debatable that there was no better left-handed reliever than Britton.
Following these three commanding years, Britton began dealing with injuries, which is where the story gets much bumpier. His battle to stay healthy made it difficult to accrue the counting numbers or to find consistency, and it took some time before Britton returned to his former self. But, after being traded to the Yankees to form a tag team with Aroldis Chapman, the dominance of Zack Britton returned.
From 2019-20, Britton got the sinker working again and just force fed torpedos to opposing hitters, leading all relievers in ground ball rate while collecting 11 more saves and posting a 1.90 ERA. The sinker that left the infield grass preparing for mass destruction propelled Britton back on track and helped add on to his legacy while generating positive feedback from the wide-spread New York fanbase.
Charles Wenzelberg/N.Y. Post
Although Britton may not be remembered as one of the greatest to do it by many, very few can replicate what he did during his prime against the competition he faced. His sinker during those three seasons at the top of the sport was one of the most valuable pitches the sport has ever seen, and there was nothing as frustrating as seeing Britton warming up in the ‘pen. His entrance didn’t strike fear, but it was impossible to not want to yell and scream at the TV after the third consecutive three-hopper to short. His beautiful, old-fashioned style of ground-ball, weak contact inducing pitching was something dad’s across the country could watch and tell their sons “thats what ya gotta do, just let ’em hit the ball on the ground and let your defense make plays”, and, really, isn’t that what baseball is about?
Britton won’t be a Hall of Famer, and he probably isn’t on anyone’s Mount Rushmore of greatest closers in MLB History. When I think about this generation, though, he is one of the first names that comes to mind. His prime is one of the greatest closer primes of all time, and although it was a little shorter, his legacy still lives. Late at night, I think I still see those three straight ground balls in a row, wondering just how no one, and I mean no one, could do anything with it. His 154 career saves has him tied with John Smoltz at 85th all time, and even though that may not seem like a significant spot in history, his relevance during the 2010’s, and his pure dominance, has left at least a lasting mark on me.
Soon enough, we may add Kenley Jansen to this list, but he has found a way to fight off father time long enough to avoid his inclusion. Even without Jansen, three of the decades greatest game enders are entering the twilight of their careers, and I think we sometimes quickly forget just how dominant some players were. They delivered when it mattered most, defining our generation of baseball one postgame handshake at a time.
Photo by Denis Poroy/Getty Images
During this postseason, when a young, unproven reliever comes into the game and you feel that rattlesnake in your stomach, I challenge you to think if you’d feel the same way if you opened your eyes and 2014 Craig Kimbrel appeared. What if 2019 Aroldis Chapman was the one running in from the bullpen? Would you still be biting your nails if 2016 Zack Britton was in the game? I can’t answer those for you, but for me? I would get goosebumps.
As a baseball writer, it is only right that, come October, I follow suit and give you all my very unlikely, highly improbable postseason predictions. At first glance, I saw a very easy path to a rematch of the reigning champion Braves and the 106-win Astros. But, it’s the postseason where miracles happen and stars are born. It cannot be THAT easy, can it? I mean, the last time we have had a rematch in the World Series was the Yankees and Dodgers in 1978. The odds on a rematch have to be ridiculous, not to mention boring. So, let’s get fun with it, and maybe hypothetical, and predict the 2022 MLB Postseason.
Series winner in Bold, Number of games the series lasts in parentheses
AL Wild Card Series Winners – Cleveland Guardians (3) & Seattle Mariners (3)
Cleveland and Tampa are so so similar, as they both represent this new-school version of old-school ideology in their own, unique way. Cleveland runs on youth and energy mixed with strike throwers, while Tampa is fueled by gasoline-powered arms and timely-hitting. Cleveland has better starting pitching, and if they can get 2 of these games to Emmanuel Clase, the league leader in saves, with a lead, they win this series. I think they do just that at home, as Cleveland just has this sense of magic to them, and it sort of reminds me of the Royals teams circa mid 2010’s. This will be a fun series to watch if you enjoy great pitching and small ball. Guardians head to the Bronx.
This is the best matchup we will see in the Wild Card Round, hands down. Elite top of the rotation starting pitching, top tier power bats, and two teams with serious edge. The Blue Jays are rebounding from a disappointing 2021 season with a vengeance and still have more to prove, as their window is closing more than it is opening.
Logan Gilbert, seen above, will see his first postseason action this weekend against Toronto. Gilbert has posted a 3.20 ERA over 185.2 IP in 2022. Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images
Seattle is entering its first postseason since 2001, but this magical season is meant for more than just getting to the dance. Seattle has more depth in its rotation and bullpen, and in a matchup of teams who can hit the ball out of the ballpark, the team with the more staunch pitching takes the series. Give me the M’s.
NL Wild Card Series Winners – St. Louis Cardinals (3) & San Diego Padres (3)
The Cardinals have so much depth, and although that isn’t as important in the lineup in this three-game format, pitching depth is vital. The additions of Jose Quintana and Jordan Montgomery along with the return of Jack Flaherty have added significant strength to the rotation, and with Mikolas and Wainwright, the Cards have arms. Ryan Helsley and Giovanny Gallegos are at the back end to lock things down, and Goldschmidt and Arenado are stars in the middle of the order.
Ryan Helsley has had a stellar year for the Cardinals, as he finished with a 1.25 ERA and 94 strikeouts in 64.2 IP. Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
On the other side, the Phillies are for real too. They backpedaled into the 6 seed, but they have star-power that can light it up in October too. Aaron Nola and Zach Wheeler are both aces and will make it tough on the Cardinals offense, and if Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper and the rest of the offense can step up, they will have a chance. Nola has done it once this year already and Phils would love to see a repeat of that performance – Aaron Nola on his Complete Game Shutout against St Louis. I don’t think it happens that way, though. St Louis will get to one of Zach Wheeler or Aaron Nola, which will ultimately put the Phillies in an unfavorable spot, as their best chance to take the best-of-three set is winning the first two with their aces on the bump. If this gets to a third game, the Cardinals will head to the NLDS. I’ll ride with the birds.
This is the upset of the Wild Card Round, potentially the entire postseason. I am not a Mets hater or someone who wants the world to burn, but let’s talk about this. The Padres have one of the hottest rotations heading into the postseason. Blake Snell is pitching with fire, Joe Musgrove has allowed 1 ER in his last 4 starts, and Yu Darvish was just named the NL Pitcher of the Month for September. Remember that Josh Hader guy? He gave up ONE earned run in September and hasn’t allowed that run since September 5th. That is the pitching side of things, and we aren’t even talking about two of the top 10 baseball players in the world in the middle of that lineup in Juan Soto and Manny Machado.
The Padres will certainly not fold, and I don’t think they are going to be scared of the hostile New York environment. Now, the Mets are for real, do not misinterpret my words. Scherzer and DeGrom are two of the greatest to ever toe the rubber, and if
Blake Snell looks to take the Padres to the same place his Rays got to in 2020. AP Photo/Rick Scuteri
the Mets lose game one with Mad Max we will absolutely see Jacob DeGrom in game two. This offense is deep, too, as Francisco Lindor has returned to star status, Pete Alonso tied for the lead for RBI in all of MLB, and Jeff McNeil just won the batting title. This is a really, really good Mets team which is indicative of a team that wins 101 games. But, similar to the other NL Wild Card series, if this gets to game three, the Padres win the series. I will take Joe Musgrove over any combination of Chris Bassitt, Taijuan Walker, and Carlos Carrasco. I know it isn’t safe, but the hell with safe. it is October! Give me the Friars.
AL Division Series Winners – New York Yankees (5) & Houston Astros (3)
Pretty chalk picks here, but it isn’t that simple for the Yanks. Mentioned before, but Cleveland can pitch. Shane Bieber, Triston Mackenzie, and Cal Quantrill will matchup very well in this series, and obviously Clase is tough on everyone. I just can’t see the Guardians hanging offensively, though. The Yankees will not be stifled three different times in this series, and if the staff holds up for the bombers, this series is theirs by a small margin. Gerrit Cole will be Gerrit Cole and the rest of the rotation will follow suit, and even though the Cleveland pitching will make it very difficult, the offense will muster enough up to skate by and move on to the ALCS.
Oswaldo Cabrera could bring a big spark to the Yankees this October. AP Photo/Adam Hunger
A big key in this series, though, is the Yanks’ left handed bats. Cleveland will consistently throw a number of righties at this Yankees team, and if guys like Anthony Rizzo, Matt Carpenter, and maybe Oswaldo Cabrera can come up with big at bats, it will lend a big advantage to the AL’s second seeded team. Scared picks aren’t good picks, but I’ll go with it anyway. Yankees in a nail-biter.
Houston is a juggernaut, and no matter how I try and look at it, I just have a hard time seeing any team in the American League beating them, and that includes Seattle. The pitching favors Houston. The offense favors Houston. The experience favors Houston. The history of this matchup favors Houston. The Astros won the season series 12-7 and have gone 30-18 against the M’s since 2020. It would also be misinformation to not list that the Astros have 2 of the top 5 AL Cy Young candidates among a group that has so many great starting pitchers, they will be forced to choose whether Jose Urquidy, Christian
Lance McCullers will look to bring his fire to the mound for the Astros next week. Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images
Javier, or Luis Garcia will be used as the FOURTH starter. Yes, Lance McCullers is still nasty, too.
The Mariners are a fantastic story, and I would love to be wrong here as rooting for them will be the highlight of my October baseball fandom (if you need your own team to root for, here is a self plug story for you – Tinder for the Playoffs -Let’s Find You a Team to Root For), but the ‘Stros are just too good and that would be irresponsible. Houston breaks out the brooms on the way to the ALCS.
NL Division Series Winners – Los Angeles Dodgers (4) & Atlanta Braves (5)
“Wow Beau, you are so invigorating and spicy by picking all of the top two seeds to go to the Championship Series!” I know, I know. Get all over me on the twitter sphere or in the comments, but it is so so hard to see otherwise. The Dodgers have continually pounded the Padres in such a way that a little brother would even agree the treatment is unruly. The Padres pitching is hot and they are coming off a high of beating the Mets, only to look up and see that big brother has not had enough yet. The Dodgers are the freakin’ Dodgers. Fans and such love making fun of them for having only won the shortened season title in 2020, but this organization is so well run and there is a reason this is postseason number 10 in the last… 10 years. If Tony Gonsolin is healthy and the Dodgers can get anything out of Dustin May, this team can win the whole thing. Whether they get either of those guys back or not, they still go get this series from the Padres. San Diego is trying to get that pesky, annoying monkey off its back. The Padres lost 14 of 19 this year and are 83-155 since 2010 against the boys in blue. There is surely frustration, and if there is ever a time, now would be it. They have momentum and elite talent, but it is just hard to see them getting this done against the 2022 LA Dodgers. It’ll be another blue October in San Diego. Dodgers to the NLCS.
Braves and Cardinals – a tale as old as infield fly rules… But, really, what a fun series this will be between two great teams and even better fanbases. The Braves will roll out their star-studded, reigning champion roster and matchup with the only roster as deep as them in the National League. The difference here is the star power. Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado are probably future Hall of Famers, but those Braves are just something. Whether it is the lineup, or the rotation, or Kenley Jansen who has found his cutter of late, this Atlanta squad is built for this run. We all saw it last year, we saw it during the pennant chase, and we’ll see it again in October 2022. The Cardinals are a great story, and what a way to go out for Wainwright, Molina, and Pujols, but the Braves are deep and better. Bravos in six.
AL Championship Series Winner – Houston Astros (6)
The best team in baseball will go to the World Series. The Yankees have gotten a historic season from Aaron Judge and breakout campaigns from Nestor Cortes Jr and Clay Holmes in order to get this far, but reliance on that will not be enough. Houston has so much pitching that the leashes can be short and nothing is lost by moving to the next guy, while the offense is fully stocked with postseason experience and success. The Yankees could get great outings from Cole, Nestor, and Severino, but it is difficult to see them getting more than one of those or any additional stellar performances from the staff throughout the series, and the deeper it goes, the harder it will get. Give me the experience, give me the depth, and give me the Astros.
NL Championship Series Winner – Atlanta Braves (6)
This somewhat follows the notion of the ALCS as well. The Dodgers are GREAT. Numbers do not lie, wins do not lie, but neither does the truth. The Dodgers are not at full strength, and they need it to get past Atlanta. If Spencer Strider is available in this series, it just gets tougher for LA. The pitching for the Braves can legitimately matchup with the lethal offense the Dodgers present. Charlie Morton, Max Fried, Kyle Wright and potentially Strider combined with Jansen and Iglesias to close things out is hard, and that is leaving some really effective arms off the list.
Raisel Iglesias has been remarkable since his move to Atlanta, posting a .34 ERA in 26.1 IP since the trade. Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
The Dodgers will fight and this series could go either way, but unless Freddie Freeman and/or Mookie Betts play at above MVP levels, LA just doesn’t have the same level of depth as Atlanta. In these longer series, it is extremely difficult to get outs without great depth, and that is why we will see a 2021 rematch between the Braves and Astros. Braves chop their way to the Fall Classic.
World Series Champion – Houston Astros (6)
Houston, in its own way, gets a heavy weight off its shoulders. No cheating scandal. No quirky nickname. None of it. Just “Champions”. The depth of the staff is on full display again and we see the offense get big hits when needed. Expect Yordan Alvarez to fully embrace himself as the superstar he is and lead Houston to its first title since 2017, one that no one can have any gripe with. Also, it’s about time for Dusty Baker, too. So few people are revered the way is Dusty is, and the “inventor” of the high-five will get plenty of them while covered in champagne and cigar smoke. Houston may not have won as many games as the Dodgers, received as much media attention as the NL East, or had a player hit 62 home runs, but what they have done is won. For six straight years, they have won, and now, without a shadow of a doubt, they are rightfully and deservedly World Champions.
Houston will win its first world series title since 2017. AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki
The chance this plays out the way I have so eloquently portrayed are slim to none, but isn’t that the fun of it? We have 12 teams, all with hopes that stretch far beyond their preliminary successes. Yes, it might be repetitive or annoying to see the same two teams in back-to-back years, but come on people, it’s the first time since 1978! No matter the outcomes or how wrong my presumptions might be, I’m just happy its that time of year again where we yell at our TV’s and watch October baseball.
It is time to consider the radio voice of the New York Yankees, John Sterling, for the Ford C. Frick award.
Mr. Sterling is the Cal Ripken Jr. of broadcasting. He did not miss a single Yankee game from 1989 until July 2019. He is the Iron Voice.
That’s right, not one game – a total of 5,060 consecutive games.
John Sterling witnessed every single Derek Jeter at-bat, and he called every Mariano Rivera pitch.
He isn’t old-school, and he certainly isn’t new-school. He has his own academy.
Ever since John was a young boy, he knew he wanted to be a broadcaster. It is his passion. It is life.
Earlier this year, I asked him what led to his decision to come back this year as the Voice of the Yankees. He digested the question, and then he responded, “you mean, why do I want to keep doing what I love to do?”
I laughed, fired back with a “yes,” and said, “people would like to know.”
At the age of 84, he decided halfway through this season that he would do every home game, with only select road games on his schedule.
However, with the season Aaron Judge was having, he decided he wanted to be on the call for each and every one of those moments. It just so happened that the 61st and 62nd home runs that Judge hit were on the road. If Sterling hadn’t traveled, he would have missed out on calling history – something he has already done many times over his storied career.
A career that he began in the music industry, transitioning to sports in 1971. That was his ultimate goal. He has broadcasted NBA, NHL, and MLB over the course of his long and successful career, but it has been the love for broadcasting that has kept him going.
The 2023 Frick Award nominees were released on Wednesday afternoon, and you seem to once again omitted Mr. Sterling from consideration. A disservice to the award, from my perspective, and one that I plead with you to reconsider.
I understand that if you are not a Yankees fan, you may say Mr. Sterling is a “homer” – or an obnoxious New Yorker who is just a fan himself.
Those statements could not be further from the truth. The people who say John Sterling is a “homer” have likely never listened to a game that he and his longtime broadcast partner, Suzyn Waldman, have called.
Mr. Sterling has repeatedly said over his career, he simply loves offense. He sometimes even does his trademarked home run call for an opposing team. It may make a Yankees fan feel ill, but it is certainly not something that a “homer” broadcaster would do.
He is more than just his home run catchphrases, and that broadcaster who says “THE YANKEES WIN”.
In New York, Mr. Sterling is a legend. He deserves the honor of being able to accept the Ford C. Frick award in person in Cooperstown. He has this way about himself. He is special. The moment you hear him broadcast a game, you are hooked. That is what happened to me, and that is how it happened for millions of New Yorkers.
I’ve shared this story before, but because of Mr. Sterling I am a baseball fan. I was grounded by my parents when I was in middle school, and I could not watch any television. So, I turned on the radio, turned the dial and I heard the deep sound of Mr. Sterling’s voice, and the chemistry he shares with Suzyn Waldman.
Since that moment, I’ve been hooked, and I’ve been inspired. I am writing this very piece and those that have come before it because of that day.
I’m positive I’m not the only person who became a baseball fan because of Mr. Sterling. Everything I have done and will do in baseball is because of that wonderful man.
He will always be remembered for his passionate calls, creating moments that will live on forever in Yankees history. No one can get you excited about a meaningless game 162 like Mr. Sterling. You want to listen to him so you don’t miss anything he says.
Mr. Sterling deserves to be honored for his dedication to a game that has done a lot for him.
October baseball magic is almost back. We are just days away from one of the most exciting times of the year. So, I took a look at how each of the 12 playoff teams might fare with their manager. Could having a certain manager just flat out win you a championship? No. However, can it help? Absolutely.
12. John Schneider, Toronto Blue Jays
Jul 15, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays interim manager John Schneider (21) before the start of the game against the Kansas City Royals at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Another baseball mind who was with the team for a long time, and worked his way up. John Schneider got this team to the postseason, the Blue Jays were out of a playoff spot.when he took over. Schneider was the bench coach of the Jays from ‘19 up until July 13th this year.
With the Blue Jays back in the postseason, GM Ross Atkins told reporters earlier this week that he might consider Schnieder as a long-term fit.
How would Schnider – in his words describe his managerial style?
“Do they need a kick in the ass or a pat on the back?” Schneider said. “You have to spend time with them and get to know them, get to know what their ins and outs are, whether you can yell at them or whether you should put your arm around them. That takes time. That’s something I try to deliberately do every day, is learn about the people and not just the player.”
11. Oliver Marmol, St. Louis Cardinals
MIAMI, FLORIDA – APRIL 20: Manager Oliver Marmol #37 of the St. Louis Cardinals looks on during batting practice prior to the game against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on April 20, 2022 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
A first-year manager making the postseason has been the theme for some teams. Oliver Marmol, drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in ‘07, has been with the organization ever since. Managed at the minor league level, before making his way to become the first base coach of the Cardinals in ‘17.
He has been able to build tremendous relationships with every player on the team, and be relatable to many. In ‘19 he transitioned to become the bench coach under Mike Shildt. After Shildt was fired in ‘21, that is when Marmol was promoted to his current position.
The largest fanfare over the style Marmol brings to St. Louis is his openness with the media and fans. It’s a different conversation than what fans are used to. They don’t feel they are being ‘talked down’ to, or that Marmol is trying to outsmart anyone with what he says. He is being himself.
Future Hall of Famer, Adam Wainwright told The Athletic earlier this year what it’s like having Marmol as his manager. “It’s understanding honest conversations when you have a guy you know really cares, when you’re walking through life with a guy and shows he cares often, when he does come down on you, you can take that because you know he loves you and he’s trying to make you better.”
Rookie manager, that isn’t easy, and he has already accomplished a lot by winning the NL Central. Marmol should be in contention to win NL Manager of the Year.
10. Scott Servais, Seattle Mariners
Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images
A former major league catcher, and now the leading man in ending a playoff drought of 20 years in Seattle. Scott Servais, and his boss, Jerry Dipoto (Mariners GM), played together when they were with the Rockies in 2000. It’s a friendship that has developed even further in Seattle, giving fans the chance to see something special once again.
Seattle saw a dynasty almost begin in the early 00s, but it fell short. Since being beaten by the Yankees in ‘01, they never made their return to the October picture until now. It’s a team that is on the rise, which creates an exciting time for Servais to be able to be at the helm.
“I do believe this team can go very deep in the playoffs and win a World Series. We’ve got that kind of pitching and defense. And we’ve got the ‘it’ factor — and that goes a long way this time of year.” – Scott Servais told MLB.com after clinching a Wild Card spot.
9. Rob Thomson, Philadelphia Phillies
Creator: Mitchell Leff
A baseball lifer. Rob Thomson has been coaching in pro-ball since 1988.
He is wrapping up his first season as MLB manager after his longtime friend Joe Giradi was fired by the Phillies halfway through the season. He was first with Joe Giradi when he was with the Yankees, serving as his bench and third base coach for close to 10 years.
Thomson was the bench coach for Gabe Kapler in ‘18, and remained in the position after Kapler was fired, and Girardi was hired. There was a lot of familiarity between Thomson and Girardi.
They won a World Series together in ‘09.
Once Girardi was fired, not many believed that Thomson was the best fit for the position, nor thought he deserved it. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic wrote a column about how firing Giardi would never solve the Phillies’ issues. Ken has since written a story admitting he was one of the many people in baseball that he was wrong. Respect.
Since he has been the manager in Philly, he has gone 65-44 (.596), and the team now has the sixth-best record in baseball. In hindsight, what the Phillies did saved their season, and led to a playoff berth for the first time since 2011.
8. Kevin Cash, Tampa Bay Rays
Lynne Sladky/Associated Press
I know I already used the term ‘players coach’ for Tito, but if I could reuse that again, I will right here. Kevin Cash learned from the ultimate coach Terry Francona. He played for Francona in Boston back in ‘07 and ‘08, and his first coaching job was on Tito’s staff in Cleveland in ‘13.
Kevin Cash is the first American League manager to win back-to-back Manager of The Year awards. Bobby Cox is the only other to do so, but did so in the National League.
The Rays have to operate differently. He should be applauded for his use, and willingness to use, innovative analytics perhaps more than any other manager in the game. Another manager, similar to Francona, who has been successful without the almost unlimited financial resources like the Boones and Roberts of the world.
Since ‘18, he hasn’t had a record below .500, and hasn’t missed the playoffs in four years. Also in that span, he won those consecutive AL Manager of the Year Awards in ‘20 & ‘21. Players want to play for Cash, and if he ever moves to a different team, they will likely follow if the situation best fits them.
It’s tough to gauge how these last four managers ranked will perform on the postseason stage, especially since two of the four were hired halfway through the season.
7. Aaron Boone, New York Yankees
Brett Davis/USA Today Sports
Being the manager of the Yankees is never going to be an easy job. Because of their massive payroll, expectations are higher than any other team from the front office, media, and fanbase.
How many times have we seen Yankee fans boo Boone after making a pitching change just this year alone? He probably has not received the credit he deserves.
He knows how to deliver a message. Just look at the speech he gave to his team after clinching the AL East:
“Hell of an effort today. You guys were the best team in the best division this year. We took everyone’s punches. We had to fight like hell for it. Now we get that opportunity to go on and realize our goal of being the champion. This deserves to be celebrated. This is a hell of a division. As competitive as it’s been with every team you’ve got to beat, and I just want to give the belt out — (there were) a number of guys that could get it. I know you want to go (celebrate). Jamo!”
I have always said the day (well, if it happens) the Yankees win a World Series championship under Aaron Boone, he will be beloved by the whole fanbase.
This is a manager who, as a player, nearly 20 years ago was worshiped for his postseason heroics. He is one big win away from being back in the glory of pinstripes.
6. Bob Melvin, San Diego Padres
SAN DIEGO, CA – APRIL 14: Manager Bob Melvin #3 of the San Diego Padres looks on before the game between the Atlanta Braves and the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on Thursday, April 14, 2022 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
The old magic of the A’s has been stolen by the Padres. Bob Melvin has a passion for the game that many do not possess.
“The number one thing that personally stood out to me was Bob’s burning desire to win a championship as a Major League manager,” said AJ Preller, President of Baseball Operations of the San Diego Padres.
Baseball IQ as a manager is not just necessary, it’s essential. The Padres felt Melvin gave them their best chance, and they proved they believed that by putting him in charge of a team with the sixth-highest payroll in baseball. They believe that he can go from low-revenue “Money Ball” to the high-end, spend-at-will Penthouse District and still succeed.
It was reported a few weeks ago that Melvin held a team meeting. Melvin’s squad has been playing inspired baseball ever since.
Melvin is another one who is attempting to win his first championship as a manager. He has suffered some tough Wild Card losses against the Royals, Yankees, and Rays with Oakland, but it’s different now.
Those games are no longer a single elimination – anything is up for grabs. MLB made an adjustment many were asking for and turned the Wild Card round into a best of three.
“The next big thing for this team and this town and this organization is getting to the postseason, going deep in it, and wanting and expecting to win a World Series, ” Preller told reporters after hiring Melvin before the season.
Will Melvin finally get the Padres their first ring?
5. Dusty Baker, Houston Astros
New Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker smiles during a baseball press conference at Minute Maid Park, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
Dusty Baker deserves to retire with a World Series win, and he may this year.
He took over as the Astros’ manager once AJ Hinch was fired due to the sign stealing scandal back in 2020. He has brought them to the ALCS and World Series since, but the Astros have yet to win another championship since the “controversial” ‘17 title.
Baker himself has earned himself a spot in the Hall of Fame whether he wins a ring or not. His resume speaks volumes – he was the first manager in major league history to lead five different teams to division titles, ninth manager to win both an AL pennant and an NL pennant, and the first African American manager with 2,000 wins.
Additionally, he has played or managed in 2.5 percent of all games in history, and he is one of just two ever with at least 1,900 hits as a player and 1,900 wins as a manger – the other being Hall of Famer Joe Torre (via theaceofspaeder/twitter).
If anyone on this list yearns for finally getting a World Series championship, it is certainly Dusty Baker.
4. Dave Roberts, Los Angeles Dodgers
PC: UCLA
Four out of his seven years as manager of the Dodgers he has won more than 100 games. In the last four seasons, Dave Roberts is 365-178 (.672). I mean, c’mon – you can’t get much better than that. Oh, and he won a World Series in that span, too. Yes, I know it was 2020, the shortened season, but nonetheless, a ring.
He also went to back-to-back World Series in ‘17 and ‘18, but both ended up in defeat. At this moment, Roberts has managed 1,030 games, and he has a winning percentage of .633, tied for the second-highest winning percentage of all time.
Dave Roberts became a name baseball fans will always remember in 2004. When the Red Sox were on the brink of being eliminated in Game 4 of the American League Championship Series, it was Roberts that started the turnaround. The Red Sox overcame the 3-0 lead the Yankees had, and they powered into a World Series win. It was a comeback that some will debate as one of the greatest of all-time.
When Dave Roberts won the NL Manager of The Year award in 2016, Alex Friedman, President of Baseball Operations of the Dodgers, had nothing but great things to say about him.
“Doc has a great baseball mind, is a great communicator, possesses endless energy and is relentlessly optimistic,” said Andrew Friedman, president of baseball operations. “He has been remarkably consistent since the first day of Spring Training which is extremely difficult to do in the roller-coaster ride that is a Major League season. He was able to maintain that through our low points as well as our high points.”
3. Brian Snitker, Atlanta Braves
Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker (43) watches from the dugout during the team’s baseball game against the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
It’s not just Brian Snitker, it’s defending World Series champion, Brian Snitker.
The journey started for Snit in Atlanta as a minor league player in 1977. He was released in ‘80, but he has been there with the organization ever since. He was a minor league manager in ‘82, and served as one for the next 15 years, winning multiple MiLB championships. He was called up to the big leagues in ‘07 when he served as the Bravos third base coach for five seasons.
Snitker was hired as the interim Braves manager after Fredi Gonzalez was let go having posted a record of 9-28 at the start of the 2016 season. After taking over, Snitker’s Braves went 59-65 to finish the year. Not bad considering what the status of the team was. The team SLG ranked 14th, and OPS fell to 13th-worst in the National League. Pitching was a struggle then too, they had a team ERA of 4.51, which was the 11th worst in the NL as well.
Since 2018, he has had a record above .500, and has now won the NL East in five consecutive seasons.
His tactics as a manager rank above almost everyone else, too. Players respect him. Former Brave, Freddie Freeman told reporters a few years ago that “When people get the job of manager the power can change who they are,” says Freeman. “He’s literally the same person he was as a third base coach. He doesn’t take it for granted after all that time in the minor leagues and what he went through.”
He has an ability to manage a loaded big-market team in a way we haven’t seen since Joe Torre with the New York Yankees.
2. Buck Showalter, New York Mets
The Buck stops here in New York, but this time it’s across the river. Like Francona, Buck Showalter is another manager with a career winning percentage above .500. Honestly, the argument could be made that these managers are 1A and 1B.
Yes, they have the hedge fund maven, Steve Cohen. That helps.
However, this is the same Mets team which has floundered with poor management.
The year Buck comes in?
They won 100 games for the first time since 1988, just four years prior to his first managerial job with the Yankees in ‘92.
Good morning, Baltimore? You know O’s fans all remember the magic of Showalter from 2010-2018. He brought the O’s to the postseason after a 15-year drought. Defeating the Rangers in the 2012 Wild Card game was a moment to remember in Baltimore.
Obviously, Buck would’ve loved to bring a championship to the city, but the O’s were challenged with fielding a team that was competitive. Don’t forget Baltimore is not a small-market team. They have a healthy TV deal and plenty of resources financially, but decided to go the rebuild route by not spending and focusing solely on analytics.
Buck opened up about the end in Baltimore, “You want to make that [winning] last as long as possible. We had to start moving players to try to gain as much as we could to get back and try to go forward. It was painful. It was painful, when you put something together like the whole organization did and you start seeing it come to an end, it’s painful. But you know you have to take some bullets along the way in order to get to the end game. Hopefully, at some point, Baltimore will be able to get back to that competitive part.”
Steve Cohen did not hire Buck to just win games, he brought him back to win championships. Well, in his first year with the team in blue and orange, they are in the race.
1. Terry Francona, Cleveland Guardians
AP Frank Franklin ll
Tito is back in the postseason, and his ability to get everything out of his team continues to be his key strength. What Francona does every single season is remarkable. He is the true definition of a players’ manager. The Guardians team president, Chris Antonetti, said at the beginning of the season that “his energy, his enthusiasm, his mindset, his outlook are as good as they’ve ever been.”
Countless times, Francona told his own players, “Be yourself, everything will be fine.” He makes his own players believe in themselves.
When he came to Cleveland in 2013, he brought winning baseball with him. In his first season at the helm with the Guardians, he won 92 games, which marked the first time in four years they were above .500. In his 10 years in Comeback City, the record speaks for itself, 843-670 (.557) as of October 3rd. Only one season (2021) was he below .500, and by only two games.
Not only does Tito know how to win, he knows how to do so without the resources the big-market teams have. The Guardians payroll this season is $82 million, which ranks 27th in the majors (per Spotrac). The league average is $162 million.
Now, what about Francona in the postseason? Well, he won two championships with Boston in ‘04 and ‘07, and he won the AL pennant with Cleveland in ‘16. In baseball, if you win a championship you usually find yourself a job. In Tito’s case, though, he has not just created a livelihood, he’s created a legacy.
Will he finally be able to bring a flag back to Cleveland for the first time since 1948?
We took a look at the American League playoff teams and decided the worst case scenario matchups for each team, but what about the National League?
We know five of the six NL teams who will be competing for a parade in their city: Dodgers, Braves, Cardinals, Mets, Padres are the fighters, as we await the final Wild Card spot. Will it be the Phillies or Brewers? Well, at this moment, the Milwaukie has a 11.4% chance of making it past the regular season. Just five days ago they had a 44.2% chance of getting in!
Now, let’s look at the five teams who are officially in to see who their postseason kryptonite is.
DODGERS
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Dominant teams? Yeah, they are certainly that. A 110+ win team, they have rolled through everyone in baseball with ease, but when it comes to the postseason? After spending over a billion dollars in the last five years, they have made it to two World Series, and won one.
Why have the Dodgers not won a championship outside of 2020 since 1988? A lot can go into the question, but the simple fact is that for some reason their teams aren’t built to win championships. Are they too power heavy, maybe. Not enough arms in the bullpen at Dave Roberts disposal, perhaps.
The Braves aren’t scared.
Atlanta answered the call last October, sending the Dodgers home in the first round. Plot twist, Freddie Freeman is now in Dodger Blue! The guy that hit two home runs and drove in four RBI’s in a pivotal NLCS that saw Atlanta as the underdogs. It’s a team that had won the first two games by just one run. That was the identity of Atlanta in ‘21, and that same heart is back again this year.
METS
Morry Gash/Associated Press
Ah, let’s meet the Mets, shall we? At one moment this season this is the team that had a 10.5 game lead in the NL East, but after being swept by the Bravos this past weekend, it is all Atlanta. This is a team that simply does not hit enough home runs. Yes, I said it. I understand the biggest knock on the sport these days is that teams hit too many and strikeout too much. And while that may be true, there are only two playoff teams that have hit fewer home runs, the Guardians and the Padres.
Many believe it is easier to wait for one mistake by a pitcher that scores three on a home run than get six hits in a row to piece together a rally against the top tier pitching today.
If the Mets don’t win the division (at this moment they have just a 0.9% chance of doing so), they will likely face off against the Padres in the Wild Card round. The Padres are finally playing up to the standard that many expected after acquiring Juan Soto this deadline. Their pitching is hands down the best in baseball right now, though the Braves are not far behind.
But, if I am going with one team I don’t want to face in the postseason if I’m the Mets? It has to be the Braves… again. They won the season series, going 10-9, and have hit the second most home runs against any team with twenty eight.
BRAVES
AP
The defending World Series champions are once again in position to win the division. This Braves team reminds me of the great teams in the ‘80s. They do all of the little things right. It’s a team that does not solely rely on hitting home runs, but it does have power.
It is hard if you are a baseball fan to not appreciate the game of Atlanta. They are such an enjoyable team to watch. It’s also a team that has discovered a way to win in the big moment. Since the Met’s had their 10.5 game lead on June 1st, they went 77-32, in addition to sweeping them this past weekend.
One team I feel like can truly shock the Braves in October are the Cardinals. It was the summer of Miles, and it very well could be the Fall too. Since August 14th, Miles Mikolas has been lights out. 2.79 ERA, 12 BB, 45 SO, and an opponent batting average of .193 over 58 innings. He will most likely be the number one starter come the postseason, and rightfully so.
PADRES
San Diego Padres’ Manny Machado reacts after hitting a two-run home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds, Tuesday, April 19, 2022, in San Diego. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
FINALLY! The postseason drought has been flushed out in San Diego, and The Pesky Padres are back. The bad news? Well, if they advance past the Wild Card round they will most likely have to face the Dodgers.
Why is that bad news? Well, they are 5-14 in the regular season against Los Angeles. With a record like that, you can guess their ERA against the Dodgers isn’t pretty either. A 5.55 ERA in 167 innings, along with giving up thirty one home runs, the most they have given up against any team. Also, don’t forget this is the team that got swept by LA in the NLDS in 2020. Now, if you feel like 2020 should not be included, they have not made it to the NLCS since they defeated the Braves in ‘98.
Two key factors bode well for the Friars in the postseason; Juan Soto and Blake Snell. Soto slammed three home runs against the Astros in ‘19, and frankly won the Nationals a championship. Snell on the other hand, could have potentially won the Rays a ring, but a managerial/analytic decision curated a debate in baseball that will last a lifetime.
CARDINALS
Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images
The era of Adam Wainwright, Yadier Molina, and Albert Pujols all playing on the same diamond is almost over. It’s a trio who have not just won championships, it’s one that revolutionized a franchise and league forever. This will be the Cardinals eleventh postseason appearance since Wainwright & Molina’s MLB debut!
Postseason Waino stats are almost a whole season, dealing 114.1 innings pitched since his first appearance in October back in 2006. He’s been as dominant as one could be. A 2.83 ERA, 123 strikeouts, and only allowing 11 home runs.
15 of 16 his career postseason starts came with Yadier Molina behind the plate, tying them with the Yankees duo of Mike Mussina and Jorge Posada for fifth-most postseason battery mates, per Elias.
I would be scared of the Dodgers if I’m St. Louis. As I mentioned above, the Dodgers are a franchise who have been bounced many times by the Cards. It’s a franchise who are desperate to cement themselves by winning in a regular postseason format.
Being a fan is hard. Being a baseball fan is extremely hard. You spend time and money while losing patience and sleep through the months of March through September, all in support of your team. And, wouldn’t you know, they repay you by watching the playoffs on their couches just like you!
Maybe you are a Pirates fan, now embarking on your 7th consecutive postseason without the presence of the black and yellow and sit in sadness, reminiscing on the days of prime Andrew McCutchen, Starling Marte, the hopeful years of Gregory Polanco (oof) to come.
Perhaps you are trying to understand where the magic of 2010, 2012, and 2014 have gone, Giants fans. Or, you could be like me, angry at the world for the hex or curse or godforsaken evil placed upon house White Sox… Fandom, man.
Whether you find yourself on a short hiatus from donning your team’s colors in the Fall months or you have lost all hope in your club entirely, there are plenty of fish in the sea! Well, 12 fish exactly, but who cares, because maybe there is nothing wrong with having an October fling. Just because your team couldn’t provide you with sufficient happiness doesn’t mean it isn’t out there! So, let’s do some match-making and figure out just who might be your 2022 postseason soulmate, because your current partner obviously is not.
If you are a fan of: ARZ, BAL, KCR, CHC, or PIT
AP Photo/Ron Schwane
You have hope! Your group of ballplayers consists of youthful upside mixed among some talented veterans, and things look to be on the upswing. All five of these squads have an average team age of 28.5 or younger and have seen growth and promise from some or many of their youngest contributors. If you find yourself as a fan of one of these five clubs, boy do I have a postseason cutie for you. It’s time for you to meet Cleveland. The Guardians have managed to continually be competitive, including winning this year’s AL Central stand-off, with an average team age of only 26! With franchise stalwarts Jose Ramirez and Shane Bieber leading a crew of bright-eyed young guns, Cleveland is an easy team to like and root for this postseason. Baltimore, Chicago, and Arizona can look a little closer at Cleveland, with a sense of optimism, as a young core surrounded by some successful vets can lead to a playoff-bound 2023 season. Although this may not be a long term deal, you know with your club looking to take the leap soon and all, for some fun in the fall leaves, I think you and Cleveland might just hit it off.
If you are a fan of: CHW, MIN, LAA, BOS, TEX, SFG
This was a rough summer for you, and I am sorry. You came into the year with equal to or significantly higher expectations than you had the year before and it just didn’t work out. Some of your teams spent money, others spent players through trades, and some just had everything they thought they needed on opening day. Unfortunately, whatever bracket your club falls in, that process did not quite turn out. So, whether its frustration, disappointment, anguish or all of the above that you feel when the weather begins to cool and baseball is on your television, there is a team for you. Ladies and Gentlemen, let’s talk Mariners.
Steph Chambers/Getty Images
In a magical season capped off by a fairy-tale moment in Cal Raleigh’s goosebump-inducing walk-off homerun, the Mariners can be the type of team that lifts your spirits and makes you forget about the season that was. Tony LaRussa? Forget about him! Scott Servais likes to party and is way cooler. Still wondering what is going on with Chris Sale? Who cares! Seattle has 3 legit arms that throw darts and hand out swords. Lift your head off the pillow and forget about how Mike Trout’s last postseason plate appearance came in 2014, Angels fans, because the Mariners have hope and so can you! The M’s erased 21 years of disappointment, so don’t let a mere six months cloud your ability to enjoy October baseball.
If you are a fan of: DET, WSH, CIN, COL, MIA, OAK
Robert Sabo/NY POST
You might feel a little stuck, which as a fan, is surely not a fun place to be. Is your team getting better? Do you have the young pieces in place to build around? Is the organization moving in the right direction? Is watching Javy Baez for five more seasons going to give you a heart attack with a side of euphoria? These are all questions you might be asking yourself heading into 2023, but you aren’t alone. For you, swipe right on the Mets and Padres. Both teams found themselves stuck in the mud following 2021 with uncertainty blanketing both fanbases. Sound familiar? The Mets and Padres have since both added and made strides to becoming threats within the National League, and they have been rewarded with playoff berths with excitement moving towards the end of the regular season.
USA TODAY / VIA REUTERS
This may be the hardest phase to be in as a fan, and I can’t promise you that it can get better. However, take solace in the fact that your team is not the first team, and definitely won’t be the last one, to be mired in mediocrity. So, while you ponder why this sport giveth and taketh away so quickly, Washington, at least cheer on your buddies Juan Soto and Josh Bell in San Diego.
If you are a fan of: CHC, MIL
It’s anybody but St Louis for you guys. In an expected down year for you Cubbie fans and what is shaping up to be an extreme let-down year in Milwaukee, nothing had to sting more than watching your mortal enemies get paraded around the country as America’s favorite ballplayers while they kicked your butt. Albert, Yadi, and Waino gave you hell for two decades, and in their swan songs, they made sure to break every record they could while winning the NL Central, just for old time’s sake. Ouch. So, let’s figure out what you are looking for on October 7th… how about someone to send those redbirds home for good. Cubs and Brewers fans, I introduce you to the Philadelphia Phillies.
AP Photo/Matt Slocum
Yes, this might be a little bitter for everyone in Milwaukee since they are the reason you will likely not snatch the six-seed, but we are talking about years of pain! With a first round matchup, the Phillies can try to force an early exit for the Cards and at least end this nightmare. Maybe Kyle Schwarber, Nick Castellanos and David Robertson still have the Cubbie blue in their heart and can give you Cubs fans your own taste of October this year. Philly can play spoiler on this reunion-palooza and make both of your fanbases happy, so why don’t you get on board and ring that bell!
As a member of this ill-fated community, I can assure you I’d rather not be single this October either. But, when your team can’t meet your needs, sometimes you have to step outside the box and meet someone, or 26 someones, new. So, let’s set the filter to “postseason eligible” and find someone to love over the next month, and hopefully we can watch baseball with some hope once again.
list in September, he struggled to find his groove, resulting in him being left off of the Wild Card roster for the Mets.
